PEOPLE are being invited to join a panel which will decide how money from a wind farm fund will be spent.

The Turncole Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund will see £35,000 distributed each year to invest in the Burnham and Southminster community.

It can be used for social, environmental and educational projects.

People living in the area are now being asked to join a panel which will decided how the money is distributed.

In the spring organisations and groups will be able to find out how they can apply for funding.

Tracy Scott, RES’ Project Manager for Turncole Wind Farm, said: “The Community Benefit Fund was established to ensure that community-based projects close to the wind farm see a direct financial benefit.

“The funding is particularly relevant to projects which contribute to the wellbeing of the local area and we hope to see a diverse Fund Panel which will decide who receives grants.”

Residents who are interested in joining the panel can contact ECF on 01245 356018 or e-mail grants@essexcf.org.uk.

For more information about ECF visit www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk.

The deadline date for applications is February 28.